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When it comes to the emotional and mental well-being of your child, finding the right therapist can feel like a monumental task. The journey might feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can significantly narrow down the choices and help you find a therapist who will meet your child’s needs. Here are three pivotal questions to consider as you embark on this crucial journey:

• 1. What is Your Experience and Expertise in Working with Children? Children and adults experience and express emotions differently. It’s imperative to find a therapist who has extensive experience and a solid understanding of child psychology. They should be adept at engaging with children and making them feel comfortable. Furthermore, inquire about their expertise in dealing with the specific concerns or challenges your child is facing.
• 2. How Will You Include Me in My Child’s Therapy Process? Parental involvement is often a crucial component of a child’s therapy process. A good therapist will recognize the importance of working together with parents. Ask prospective therapists how they plan to include you in the therapy process. Will they provide regular updates? Will there be parent-child sessions, or will they offer guidance on how you can support your child’s mental health journey at home?
• 3. What Approaches and Techniques Do You Use in Therapy? Therapeutic approaches vary widely, and it’s essential to find a therapist whose methods align with your child’s needs and your family values. Whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, or family therapy, understanding the techniques a therapist uses will give you insight into what your child’s therapy experience will be like. Feel free to ask questions about the therapist’s approach, as well as what evidence they have that this approach works for the unique challenges facing your child or teen.

Southeast Psych Nashville has an outstanding team of extraordinary therapists who specialize in working with children, teens, and their families. They offer a nurturing and supportive environment where your child can explore and address their emotions and challenges. With their extensive experience, the therapists at Southeast Psych Nashville are adept at tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of each child and family they work with.

Getting started on the path to finding the right therapist for your child is just a phone call away. Reach out to Southeast Psych Nashville at 615-373-9955 to make an appointment. Our supportive team is ready to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process of starting therapy. Your child’s mental health is invaluable, and finding the right support can make all the difference in their lives.

Life, with all its ups and downs, often challenges us deeply. While some problems are part of the human experience and tend to resolve with time, others may linger, affecting our quality of life. Discerning between the two can be tricky, but knowing the difference is crucial for our overall well-being. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this gray area and decide whether seeking a therapist might be a beneficial step.

Questions to Contemplate:

Begin by reflecting on the nature and duration of the issue at hand. Some questions to consider include:

• How long has this issue been bothering me?
• Is it affecting my relationships, work, or daily routine?
• Have I been feeling persistently sad, anxious, or overwhelmed?
• Are my coping mechanisms healthy or potentially harmful?
• Do I feel like I am near my max or breaking point?
• Have I tried ways to deal with it or cope that just have not helped enough?

Normal Life Problems vs. Prolonged Struggles:

It’s normal to feel down or anxious during challenging times, and these feelings often dissipate as situations improve. However, if these emotions persist or intensify over time, it might be indicative of a deeper issue that could benefit from professional intervention. For example, it might be normal to feel deep grief after a breakup or loss, but if this gets worse over time or begins to interfere with your ability to cope and function well, it may require an outside guide.

Feedback from Trusted Individuals:

Sometimes, insights from close friends or family members can provide a different perspective. They might have noticed changes in your behavior or mood that you haven’t. Their observations can be valuable in understanding the extent of the issue. Often loved ones are a great source of feedback during these times when you may not be able to see your situation clearly or objectively.

Online Screenings and Self-Assessments:

While not a substitute for professional diagnosis, online mental health screenings and self-assessments can provide a preliminary understanding of your emotional state. There are some depression and anxiety screening instruments, for example, that give you a sense of what range of concern you might be in. We’re not endorsing any of them in particular, but some may be another helpful source of information. If you do seek these out, make sure you are going to a reputable site run by true professionals and not an untrained person’s site or blog.

Consider a Consultation:

If in doubt, scheduling a consultation with a therapist can provide clarity. A therapist can help assess whether the issues you are facing require therapy and guide you on the next steps.

Seeking therapy is a personal and significant decision. It’s a step towards self-awareness, healing, and growth. Every individual’s journey is unique, and what matters most is finding the right support when needed.

If you are in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin area of Middle Tennessee and are contemplating seeking therapy, Southeast Psych Nashville is here to assist you on this journey. Our excellent therapists are skilled in working with a diverse range of issues and are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment. Give us a call at 615-373-9955 to get started. We’d love to accompany you on your path towards understanding, resilience, and well-being. Your mental health is a priceless asset, and our dedicated team at Southeast Psych Nashville would be honored to support you.

Jonathan Haidt is one of our favorite psychologists at Southeast Psych Nashville. His more recent books, “The Coddling of the American Mind” and “The Righteous Mind” are modern classics. It’s time to revisit one of his earlier works. In “The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom”, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt embarks on a quest to dissect the nature of human happiness, drawing bridges between ancient wisdom and modern scientific insights. This book is not just a casual read but an intellectually stimulating journey that unveils the essence of happiness and how one can attain it in today’s complex world. Here are some of the pivotal discussions and insights from the book that make it a must-read for those on the quest for a fulfilling life:

Synthesis of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science

Haidt brilliantly synthesizes ancient philosophical, religious, and theoretical texts with recent scientific discoveries. He explores various paths to happiness and examines them through the lens of modern research, proposing a revised ‘Happiness Hypothesis.” The book delves into various philosophical and religious traditions, from Buddhism to the ideas of thinkers like Plato, Nietzsche, and Freud, aligning them with modern psychological theories and neurological findings.

The Dual Systems of the Mind

A significant highlight of the book is the metaphor of the mind as divided into two main parts, which Haidt uses to explain happiness in different contexts. He likens the conscious mind to a rider and the unconscious mind to an elephant, illustrating the interaction between the reasoned and automatic processes of the mind. This metaphor serves as a basis to explore how happiness can be pursued through both intellectual and emotional channels. For therapists, this is often a powerful metaphor that we use to talk about the interplay between the rational and emotional parts of our brains.

Beyond Pop Psychology

Haidt criticizes the overemphasis on conscious thought and self-awareness in pop psychology, arguing that lasting happiness comes from engaging the emotional and unconscious parts of our minds. He suggests that cultivating habits like daily meditation and mindfulness practice can be more effective in promoting happiness and well-being than mere intellectual insights.

Practical Applications of Positive Psychology

“The Happiness Hypothesis” also guides readers on how to apply the principles of positive psychology to achieve greater happiness. It offers interpretations of cultural and societal phenomena, insights into romantic relationships, and discusses how narrow Western concepts of virtue and morality might be hindering our happiness and well-being.

Why Should You Read “The Happiness Hypothesis”?

Jonathan Haidt’s masterpiece is a well-reviewed, scientifically sound, and engaging book that reads like a novel while offering genuine moral and practical insights. It serves as both intellectual nourishment and a practical guide for those seeking to understand the complex nature of happiness and how to attain it amidst life’s challenges. Through a rich blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, Haidt provides readers with a robust framework to explore happiness in a nuanced and informed manner. This book is not just an exploration of positive psychology, but a beacon of understanding that illuminates the path toward personal fulfillment and a meaningful life.

If any of our expert therapists at Southeast Psych Nashville can help you or your loved one move toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life or overcome obstacles that threaten your progress, we’d love to hear from you. Call 615-373-9955 to get started today.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become significant sources of information for many, including in the realm of psychology. These platforms offer an array of content, from mental health tips to psychological insights with a quick search. After awhile, you no longer even have to search, as the algorithm brings the content to you. However, like a double-edged sword, this ease of access comes with its set of pros and cons. Let’s explore the positive and negative aspects of consuming psychology information on social media.

Positives:

1. Accessibility: Social media platforms provide easy access to a vast amount of information. Anyone with a smartphone can learn about mental health and psychological concepts without having to step outside their home.
2. Awareness: These platforms can play a significant role in spreading awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and promoting open conversations around these topics.
3. Community Building: Social media can help individuals find communities of people facing similar issues, creating a sense of belonging and support.
4. Motivation: Seeing others share their mental health journeys or professionals providing self-help tips can serve as motivation for individuals to seek help or work on their own mental well-being.

Negatives:

1. Misinformation: Not all information shared on social media is accurate or reliable. Misinformation can lead to misunderstandings about mental health and can potentially be harmful.
2. Over-Simplification: Complex psychological concepts can be over-simplified to fit into short videos or posts, leading to a lack of depth and understanding.
3. Lack of Personalization: The general advice offered on social media is not tailored to individual needs, which is crucial in mental health matters.
4. Potential Triggering Content: Social media content can sometimes be triggering for individuals dealing with mental health issues, causing more harm than good.
5. Substitute for Professional Help: There’s a risk of individuals substituting social media for professional psychological help, which can be detrimental to their mental health.

While social media can serve as a platform for awareness and support, it should never replace professional mental health care. The nuances and individual nature of mental health require a personalized, professional approach that social media cannot provide.

If you reside in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin area of Middle Tennessee and seek real in-person expert guidance on psychological issues and challenge, a call to Southeast Psych Nashville at 615-373-9955 is the first step towards receiving the personalized care you deserve. Our team of outstanding, highly trained therapists is ready to work with you, providing the expert guidance and support necessary for navigating life’s challenges. Your mental health is a journey

that deserves the right professional companionship, ensuring a path of understanding, healing, and growth.

The term ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) has become almost commonplace. We often hear parents, teachers, and even children themselves use it casually to describe moments of inattention or hyperactivity. However, truly understanding and diagnosing ADHD is far more complex than observing a few scattered behaviors. This is where the significance of a comprehensive psychoeducational assessment comes into play. At Southeast Psych Nashville, we believe an excellent psychoeducational assessment not only helps clarify a diagnosis, but also helps you understand your child well and create a plan that helps him or her thrive at home and at school. Here are five reasons why these complete psychoeducational assessments are important:

1. Beyond Surface-Level Observations

Children, by nature, can be energetic, easily distracted, and occasionally forgetful. It’s a part of growing up. However, when these behaviors become persistent and interfere with a child’s ability to function effectively in academic, social, or home settings, it might indicate ADHD. A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment delves deeper than surface-level observations, examining patterns over time and in various contexts.

2. A Holistic View of the Child

A full psychoeducational assessment doesn’t just focus on the potential symptoms of ADHD. It provides a holistic view of the child, considering cognitive abilities, academic skills, emotional functioning, and social interactions. This ensures that the diagnosis isn’t made in isolation but is based on a complete understanding of the child’s strengths and challenges.

3. Ruling Out Other Conditions

Many other conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. Learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and even certain medical conditions can present with signs that are similar to ADHD. A thorough assessment helps professionals rule out other potential diagnoses, ensuring that the child receives the appropriate interventions and support.

4. Tailored Recommendations and Interventions

Once a child is accurately diagnosed with ADHD through a comprehensive assessment, professionals can provide tailored recommendations. These might include specific classroom accommodations, behavioral strategies, or therapeutic interventions that address the unique needs of the child. A one-size-fits-all approach is rarely effective, and a detailed assessment ensures that the strategies employed are as individualized as the children themselves.

5. Building a Supportive Environment

Understanding the nuances of a child’s challenges and strengths allows parents, teachers, and caregivers to create a more supportive environment. When adults are equipped with this knowledge and understanding, they can foster empathy, patience, and effective strategies to help the child thrive.

An accurate diagnosis of ADHD requires careful and comprehensive evaluation. A full psychoeducational assessment is not just a formality; it’s a crucial step in ensuring that children receive the understanding, support, and interventions they truly need. To ensure your child reaches his or her full potential, we encourage you to prioritize the importance of thorough and compassionate assessment. At Southeast Psych Nashville, our psychologists complete exceptionally good psychoeducational assessments that help you and the school understand your child and come up with a plan that fits his or her unique needs. To schedule an assessment, call 615-373-9955.

Welcome to the Southeast Psych Nashville blog! Serving the cities of Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, and the surrounding towns in Middle Tennessee, we are committed to offering evidence-based psychological services to our community. Today, we’re diving into a topic that affects millions of people worldwide: depression. Let’s examine what it is, the symptoms of it, the causes of it, and how it can be best treated.

What is Depression?

Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch; it’s a serious mental health condition that can have a profound impact on your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It’s characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

Symptoms of Depression

The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but they often include:

• Persistent sadness or “empty” mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Irritability
• Fatigue or low energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances
• Physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes of Depression

Depression can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetic Factors – Some people are genetically predisposed to depression, meaning it may run in families. However, not everyone with a family history of depression will develop the condition.
• Environmental Factors – Life events such as trauma, loss of a loved one, or high stress can trigger depression. Other environmental factors like workplace stress, relationship issues, and financial difficulties can also contribute.
• Biological Factors – Imbalances in neurotransmitters, hormones, and other biological processes can play a role in depression.

Evidence-Based Therapies for Treating Depression

Treatment for depression often involves a multi-faceted approach, including medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Here are some evidence-based therapies for treating depression:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviors and replace them with healthier ones.
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) – MBCT combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive therapy to help individuals understand and manage their thoughts and emotions.
• Exercise & Behavioral Activation – Physical activity has been shown to improve mood and mental well-being, making it a valuable component of depression treatment.

We Would Love to Help

Depression is a complex condition that requires professional intervention for effective management. At Southeast Psych Nashville, we have exceptional therapists with a good track record of helping people of all ages manage depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 615-373-9955, and our staff will connect you with the therapist who is the best fit for you.

Athletes face a unique set of mental health challenges, as they are often under a great deal of pressure to perform at a high level and maintain their physical health. In addition, the demands of training and competition can take a toll on their mental health and well-being. Some of the specific mental health challenges faced by athletes include:

• Pressure to perform: Athletes may feel a great deal of pressure to succeed and achieve their goals, which can lead to anxiety, stress, and burnout.
• Injuries and setbacks: Injuries and setbacks are common in sports, and they can take a toll on an athlete’s mental health. Dealing with the emotional and physical challenges of an injury can be difficult, and athletes may struggle with feelings of frustration, sadness, and fear.
• Isolation: Athletes may feel isolated from their peers due to the demands of their sport, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
• Body image issues: Many athletes may feel pressure to maintain a certain weight or body type, which can lead to disordered eating or body image issues.
• Transitioning out of sports: For athletes who are retiring or transitioning out of sports, the loss of their identity as an athlete can be difficult and lead to feelings of grief and loss.

To address these challenges, it is important for athletes to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed. This may involve seeking therapy or counseling, finding supportive friends and family, and practicing self-care. It is also important for coaches and sports organizations to prioritize the mental health of their athletes and provide resources and support as needed.

Athletes face unique mental health challenges due to the demands and expectations of their sport. By prioritizing their mental health and seeking support when needed, athletes can better navigate these challenges and maintain their overall well-being.

Southeast Psych Nashville’s specialized “Artists & Athletes” program offers customized services for individual athletes, couples, and their families in a highly confidential way. You can learn more by calling 615-373-9955.

As creative professionals, musicians and artists often face unique mental health challenges that can have a significant impact on their work and overall well-being. These challenges can stem from a variety of factors, including the demands of the industry, the pressure to succeed, and the inherent vulnerability of sharing one’s artistic creations with the world.

One of the primary mental health challenges faced by musicians and artists is the pressure to succeed. In a competitive industry, there is often a constant pressure to produce and perform at a high level, which can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. This pressure can be exacerbated by the unpredictable nature of the industry, as well as the financial insecurity that many artists face.

In addition, the isolation and solitude that is often required for artistic creation can lead to feelings of loneliness and social isolation. This can be particularly challenging for those who rely on the energy and feedback of an audience to fuel their work.

Another unique challenge faced by musicians and artists is the inherent vulnerability of sharing one’s artistic creations with the world. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and self-doubt, as well as a fear of failure or rejection.

Given the unique challenges that musicians and artists face, it is important for them to prioritize their mental health and well-being. This may include seeking support from trusted friends and family, engaging in self-care activities, and seeking professional help when needed. It is also important for the industry as a whole to recognize and address the mental health challenges faced by musicians and artists, and to provide resources and support to those who may be struggling.

Musicians and artists face unique mental health challenges that can have a significant impact on their work and overall well-being. It is important for them to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed, and for the industry as a whole to recognize and address these challenges.

Southeast Psych Nashville’s specialized “Artists & Athletes” program offers customized services for individuals, bands, families, couples, and loved ones in a highly confidential way. You can learn more by calling 615-373-9955.

As a working parent, it can be a challenge to juggle the demands of work and family, and the added stress of the current pandemic has only made this more difficult for many families. It is no surprise, then, that working parents are at increased risk for mental health concerns and struggles.

One of the primary mental health concerns faced by working parents is the pressure to balance work and family demands. This can lead to feelings of guilt, exhaustion, and stress, as well as a sense of inadequacy in both roles. In addition, the lack of a clear boundary between work and home can make it difficult to fully relax and recharge, leading to ongoing feelings of stress and burnout.

Another mental health concern faced by working parents is the potential for isolation and loneliness. The demands of parenting can be isolating, and the lack of social support can contribute to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. This can be exacerbated for parents who are working remotely or who do not have a strong support network.

The rise in mental health diagnoses in children in recent years is also a significant concern for working parents. Many parents may feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support their child’s mental health, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. It is important for parents to seek support and guidance from mental health professionals and to prioritize their own mental health and well-being in order to be able to support their children effectively.

So, what can working parents do to address these mental health concerns and struggles? Some strategies may include:

• Seeking support: It is important for working parents to seek support from trusted friends, family, and mental health professionals. This can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of perspective and guidance.
• Prioritizing self-care: Working parents should make an effort to prioritize self-care, whether it be through exercise, relaxation techniques, or simply taking time to relax and recharge.
• Seeking flexible work arrangements: Many employers are open to flexible work arrangements that can help alleviate the pressure of balancing work and family. Working parents should feel empowered to advocate for their needs and negotiate for arrangements that work for them.
• Seeking help for children’s mental health: If a child is struggling with their mental health, it is important for working parents to seek help from a mental health professional. This can provide the support and guidance needed to address the underlying issues and improve overall well-being.

Working parents face a number of mental health concerns and struggles, particularly in the current climate. By seeking support, prioritizing self-care, seeking flexible work arrangements, and seeking help for their children’s mental health, working parents can take steps to address these challenges and improve their overall well-being.

At Southeast Psych Nashville, we have several outstanding therapists who understand the challenges of working parents and can offer expert advice, guidance, and strategies. Call 615-373-9955 if we can help you.

Sleep is an essential aspect of our overall health and well-being, yet many of us struggle to get the recommended amount of sleep on a regular basis. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep per night to function at their best, yet nearly one-third of adults in the United States get less than that.

So, what are the mental health benefits of sleep, and how can we improve our sleep?

One of the primary mental health benefits of sleep is the role it plays in regulating our emotions and mood. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a negative outlook, while sufficient sleep can help us feel more energized, focused, and positive.

Sleep also plays a critical role in memory and learning. During sleep, ourbrains consolidate and process information from the day, which can help us retain new information and improve our problem-solving skills.

In addition, sleep is essential for maintaining physical health, as it helps to repair and restore the body and mind. Lack of sleep has been linked to a number of physical health problems, including an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

So, how can we improve our sleep? Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Establish a regular sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekends.
• Create a sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
• Limit screen time before bed: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Try activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation to help you relax and fall asleep. There is evidence that “478 breathing” where a person takes an inhale for a 4 count, holds breath for a 7 count, and has a slow exhale for an 8 count can help calm the central nervous system and make it easier to sleep.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep, so try to limit your intake, especially in the hours before bed.

Sleep is an essential aspect of our mental and physical health, and there are many steps we can take to improve our sleep and get the rest we need. By establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a sleep-friendly environment, limiting screen time, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, we can set ourselves up for a better night’s sleep and improved overall well-being.

Many of the therapists at Southeast Psych Nashville use cognitive-behavioral strategies to help people improve their sleep. If we can help you with this, give us a call at 615-373-9955 and we’ll match you to the right professional.